The Delhi government is set to notify rules for the welfare and inclusion of transgender persons within the next 15 days, marking a significant step toward enhancing support for the community in the national capital.
According to recent reports, the rules will facilitate the integration of transgender individuals into key central welfare initiatives, including the SMILE scheme (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) and Garima Greh shelter homes. These measures aim to provide legal recognition, access to livelihood opportunities, healthcare, education, rehabilitation, and other entitlements to transgender persons, ensuring they receive equal benefits without discrimination.
An official from the Department of Social Welfare indicated that the notification is expected soon, building on the framework of the national Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, and its associated rules. The move comes in response to directives from the central government, including an order issued on November 19, 2025, urging all states and Union territories to fully adopt and implement transgender welfare provisions.
This development follows Delhi's earlier notification of the Delhi Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2025, in July 2025, which established procedures for self-perceived gender identity recognition, certificate issuance, anti-discrimination measures, and the formation of a Transgender Welfare Empowerment Board. The upcoming rules are expected to operationalize inclusion in specific schemes like SMILE, which focuses on comprehensive rehabilitation and livelihood support for marginalized groups, including transgender persons, and Garima Greh homes, which offer safe shelter and vocational training.
Advocates and community members have welcomed the anticipated notification as a positive stride toward addressing long-standing gaps in welfare access. It aligns with broader national efforts to set up Transgender Welfare Boards and Protection Cells across states, though implementation has varied.
The Delhi government has emphasized its commitment to inclusive policies, with the rules poised to strengthen protections and opportunities for transgender residents in areas such as employment, housing, and public services.
Officials have not specified an exact date but confirmed the timeline of approximately 15 days from mid-February 2026 reports. Further details on the final rules will be available upon official gazette notification.
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